QU510 - Feasibility Study of Financial Support Mechanism - AWARD

The Council is seeking experienced/independent external consultants to undertake a feasibility study to establish alternative financial support mechanisms for repayment grants, loans, loan guarantees, equity schemes and wage subsidy schemes.

The findings of the feasibility study will be used to formulate a business strategy for Birmingham City Council and it is intended that the new provision will be delivered inhouse by the City Council.

The Feasibility needs to provide:

• oAn in-depth overview of current market provision for a) repayment grants, b) loans c) loan guarantees (ie interest free and soft loans), d) equity provisions and wage subsidies
• oMarket need and demand for alternative mechanisms
• oConduct an online survey to establish SME preferences and gauge the appetite for the provision options being considered
• oGaps/opportunities in the market
• oLiaise with key stakeholders/Council delivery partners
• oIdentify/liaise with Local Authorities which already have alternative financial mechanisms in place
• oLevel of investment required by the Council for each mechanism/the minimum scales of funding provision
• oAdvantages/disadvantages of each option
• oEngagement with the Council's key delivery partners and SMEs to gauge feedback on these proposals
• oRecommendations for the best option

This contract will be for a period of 8 weeks commencing 13th September 2021 until 5th November 2021.

The Council will be using its free to use e-tendering system (in-tend) for the administration of this procurement process and potential suppliers must register with the system to be able to express an interest. If you wish to express an interest in this opportunity please click on the following link to access https://in-tendhost.co.uk/birminghamcc/ and submit your details to register. You will then be sent details on how to log on which will enable you to download all relevant quotation documentation.

If you are unable to register with In-tend or have any questions or problems on how to use this web site please either email us at: cps@birmingham.gov.uk or call CPS Helpdesk on 0121 464 8000.

Your completed quotation submission should be returned by noon on 9th September 2021 via the 'in-tend' system https://in-tendhost.co.uk/birminghamcc